Congratulations to Our Yass Valley Australia Day Award Winners!

Published on 26 January 2025

The Yass Valley community gathered at Coronation Park on Sunday 26 January to honour the exceptional achievements and contributions of the 2025 Australia Day Award winners and nominees.

Mayor Jasmin Jones led the tributes, joined by local community ambassadors Daniel and Toni Neuhaus, the Deputy Mayor Kristen Butler, and a number of Yass Valley Councillors. Guests enjoyed a delicious breakfast provided by Yass Rotary and the CWA, and enjoyed a rousing performance by this year's 'Event of the Year' award winners, the Yass Valley Concert Band.

The Citizen of the Year award was presented to Ben McCann for his tireless dedication to local charities and his outstanding work with Apex Village. His dedication to Apex, where he ensures the senior residents are supported and the grounds are well maintained, showcases his incredible heart for the community which also has in the past included support to Yass Relay for Life, Duncan’s Legacy, SPINN Foundation, Yass Valley Festivals, Anzac Day, Show Society and Yass FM.

The Senior Citizen of the Year award went to Bimbi Turner, our dynamic and inspiring community powerhouse. Her contributions to Liberty Theatre, Yass Rotary, Red Cross, Yass Hospital Auxiliary and the upkeep of Bowning and Tangmangaroo churches highlight her exceptional energy and continuous dedication to planning, co-ordination and fundraising for a number of our local community organisations.

Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Blake Hollingsworth for his volunteer work with the Yass Railway Museum, Scouts, and the Yass Valley Youth Council. Blake’s efforts demonstrate maturity and generosity beyond his years.

John Thorn received the Volunteer of the Year award for his 12 years of service to the Murrumbateman Village Markets and broader community. His leadership and hard work have been an inspiration and driving force behind many local initiatives and instrumental in the market’s success.

The Community Group of the Year award was presented to the Binalong Progress Association. This group was recognised for their tireless work supporting residents and enhancing the quality of life in Binalong. Former president Nigel Wong accepted the award, and was also nominated for his individual contributions to the Binalong community.

The Event of the Year award went to the Yass Valley Concert Band for their incredible musical performances across the region. From Christmas Carols and the Binalong Twilight Festival to the Yass Christmas Parade and this year's Australia Day celebration, their hours of practice and dedication have brought excellent music and joy to the community.

The Mayor’s Community and Essential Services Award was presented to the staff of Yass Hospital. Their achievements include upskilling staff, reintroducing non-urgent blood transfusions, recruiting overseas nurses, and reintroducing essential facilities like the Mother Hub and Women’s Health Service.

The Mayor’s Special Australia Day Award was given to 12-year-old Oliver Casey. Oliver’s selfless acts of kindness by mowing lawns for those in need, made him very deserving of this award.

Congratulations to all our award winners and nominees! Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and inspiring commitment to others.